Amber Zhang

    YOU have probably heard about the long queues to enter Hong Kong from Shenzhen at the weekend. One of the main reasons why Shenzhen residents go to Hong Kong is to purchase jewelry, particularly watches. Luxury brand watches are a popular choice, but some prefer antique watches because these have their own history and character.

    Antique watches are different from modern watches in both technology and design. Each is a distinctive work of art. There was a time when only the wealthy could own watches, therefore they became valued status symbols. Watchmakers were under pressure to ensure the accuracy and aestheticism of each one.

    However, choosing the right watch from one of Hong Kong’s many antique watch stores requires time and knowledge.

    A collector needs to be aware, original ones are always the best. Most antique watches being sold in Hong Kong were made between 1910 and 1960. Some antique watch shop owners may change the diamonds on old watches or even swap them for bigger diamonds so they can raise the price.

    Old watches may have been through major repairs in their long history — so to check the inner workings is a necessary process before buying. It is not worth buying a watch that is unreliable.

    The shape of a watch and the uniqueness of its design also decide the value. Square ones tend to be more precious than rectangular or round ones. If you can find an unusually shaped old watch such as a triangular one, then it is most likely a collectible.

    Searching for and finding a well-preserved vintage watch in an unusual model with precious jewels in it is an incomparable feeling.

    Most antique watch shop owners enjoy their work. Some have been involved in the business for more than 30 years. Listen to their stories, such as stories of previous owners, where a watch may have been, and what historical events it witnessed. The older the model the more interesting the stories.

    Old watches may need to be repaired, so learn the preservation skills from shop owners and ask for a guarantee.

    The antique watch business tends to thrive and shrink along with the economy. In the 1990s, when the Asian stock markets were booming, a craze for old watches formed in Hong Kong.

    Investors entered the market and values soared by 300 to 400 percent. An antique watch bought for HK$2,000 in 1990 soared in value to HK$8,000 in 1997. But with the economic meltdown, the business was harmed, said Ching Kuok, a shop owner of one of the most respected antique watch companies in Hong Kong for over 30 years.

    But for the enthusiasts who collect for love and not for profit, searching for an exclusive antique watch that suits their personal style will never lose its fun.

Antique

watch shops

in Hong Kong

Memory Watch & Accessories (古表饰)

Shop L7, the Bank of East Asia Bldg., 10 Des Voeux Road Central (德辅道中10号东亚银行大厦L7)

Opening hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday to Friday

Tel: (00852) 2522-5777

Ching Kuok Antique Watch Specialist (精确古董表)

63A, G/F, Electric Road, Causeway Bay (天后电器道63A地下)

Opening hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday to Saturday

Tel: (00852) 2571-9083

Clocks & Watches (乐古时针)

28C, G/F, Lok Ku Road

(乐古道28C号地下)

Opening hours: 1 p.m. -6 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday

Tel: (00852) 8208-2087